Soft ballads herald new image for Day

After a six-year hiatus during which the singer-songwriter had two mega hits on the radio and two alcohol-related arrests, Howie Day has returned with “Sound The Alarm,” a collection of soft ballads that seem to open a new chapter in Day’s life.

The piano dominates many of the 11 tracks on this release, giving the album a very relaxing, dreamy vibe.

Day also has a few songs lead by acoustic guitar, though you won’t find another “Collide” on this release.

One of the best songs on the album is the peaceful, acoustic-driven “Undressed.” While it’s not likely to garner him any commercial attention, fans of his previous work should appreciate it.

On “Sound the Alarm,” Day seems to have discovered the sound he wants.

Though fans of his last album may not be as enthralled by this one, he’s sure to be a mainstay on adult alternative radio.